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India’s natural marvels –– from its mountains to its beaches, and its mangroves to its oceans –– are all wondrous in their own rights. With offers of beauty, calm, and adventure, these sites give India a rather commendable dimension.
Man-made marvels, however, are not far behind. They too are intricate in their own special ways. Today, let’s look at one of India’s firsts in this field –– our first man-made island.
Not many are aware of the Willingdon (also called Willington) Island located in Kerala. Back in 1928, Sir Robert Bristow was responsible for expanding and deepening the Kochi seaport from where a major part of the sea trade used to take place. The Kochi harbour already functioned as a testament to India’s, especially Southern India’s trade relations with the world and expanding it meant furthering its influence. And so, Sir Bristow called for the dredging out of sand, mud, and other materials from Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom to create the first Indian artificial island.
The name comes as an ode to Lord Willingdon, the then Viceroy of India. The Venduruthy Bridge connects the island to the mainland of Ernakulam, which plays a crucial role in the logistics of trade. As a seaport in the city of Kochi, Willingdon’s 775 acres also house the Office of the Cochin Port Trust and the Indian Naval base INS Vendurthy.
Willingdon is known for more than its history –– it is also a famous haunted location in Kerala. It is said that ghost sightings are common on the island, and legend has it that it stems from the death of a British woman. Apparently, her partner proved unfaithful to her, resulting in the beginning of her decline, soon after which she passed away. The residents believe that often, one can hear the wails of a woman even when there is no one around –– assuming the cries are of the British woman.
The Embarkation Ferry Station in the area is also infamous for ghost sightings. There are several abandoned homes in the area, perhaps those that belonged to the staff of the Cochin Port Trust. Not many people choose to wander in the vicinity owing to its eerie nature.
Kerala’s rich culture is clearly not limited to its language, food, and people. Its history shapes a lot of what is believed today and also much of how the coastal state functions. From busting sea trade to haunted homes, the Willingdon Island of Kochi holds tales just waiting to be told.
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